Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to a trench former assembly and a method of constructing a trench using the trench former assembly. Typically, the trench former assembly comprises a forming member and a corresponding retention and removal system. The forming member is structured to facilitate forming the trench, while the retention and removal system is structured to suspend the forming member and support the forming member against displacement and rotation during forming of the trench. Embodiments of the invention are also directed to a dual-pour type trench former assembly for forming a multi-layer trench.

Abstract: The present invention is manufactured to prevent the difficulties that may arise when installing a drainage system into a trench that has been cut into a sidewall of a building containing a network of structural members. The present invention is developed to produce a secure and effective connection between the structural member(s) of a drainage system and the structural members in the sidewall of a building in order to increase the stability of the drainage system within the sidewall.

Abstract: The present invention embodies a drainage device that is used for controlling the flow of rainwater during the first flush of rainfall. The drainage device includes a basin configured to receive rainwater or other liquids from an adjacent driving surface roadway through a drain (e.g., a grate). The interior of the basin encloses a plurality of pollution collection members (e.g., lattices) configured to trap pollutants in the rainwater for extraction from the rainwater. The pollution collection members are angled so as to increase the surface area that is exposed to rainwater entering and received within the drainage device (also referred to herein as the “outside surface” of the pollution collection members). The pollution collection members are configured to trap pollutants. The outside surfaces of the pollution collection members may be covered in a fabric that increases efficiency in filtering pollutants from the rainwater.

Abstract: The present invention embodies a drainage device that is used for controlling the flow of rainwater during the first flush of rainfall. The drainage device includes a basin configured to receive rainwater or other liquids from an adjacent driving surface roadway through a drain (e.g., a grate). The interior of the basin encloses a plurality of pollution collection members (e.g., lattices) configured to trap pollutants in the rainwater for extraction from the rainwater. The pollution collection members are angled so as to increase the surface area that is exposed to rainwater entering and received within the drainage device (also referred to herein as the “outside surface” of the pollution collection members). The pollution collection members are configured to trap pollutants. The outside surfaces of the pollution collection members may be covered in a fabric that increases efficiency in filtering pollutants from the rainwater.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to apparatuses and methods for collecting, filtering, and/or draining fluid from a surface. For example, according to one embodiment, an apparatus is structured for positioning at least partially below the surface, and the apparatus comprises: (1) a core comprising a base portion and a plurality of fingers extending therefrom; and (2) a filter media comprising a plurality of polymer fibers structured so that the filter media is capable of filtering particles as small as approximately fifty microns from fluid flowing through the filter media, and wherein the filter media is disposed at least partially around the core so that together the core and the filter media define a flow channel, the flow channel being structured to drain fluid away from the surface.

Abstract: Referral marketing allows retail customers to circulate a message recommending a product to a designated set of contacts. The recommendation may be posted with the order or subsequently, after the individual has received the product. The invention may include response-tracking capability that records whether any of the individuals who received recommendations purchase the product and facilitates compensation of the individual by the seller for making the sale.